Beyond the Studio: The Power of On-Location Filming
As AI tools become more universal, and VR environments become more and more real, the debate between filming on location versus in a controlled-environment studio continues to be a topic of discussion. While both approaches have their merits and challenges, and neither is perfect for every situation, shooting on location offers unique benefits that can elevate your project to new heights. Let's explore why stepping out of the studio might be the key to unlocking your next cinematic masterpiece.
Unleashing Creativity in Real-World Settings
A lagoon near the ocean on Portugal’s Silver Coast.
One of the most significant advantages of on-location filming is the authenticity and realism it brings to your production. Real-world settings naturally possess textures, sounds, and atmospheres that feel naturally organic in a film. This authenticity not only enhances the visual appeal of your project but also adds depth and context to your story.
When you film on location, the environment becomes an integral part of your narrative. Diverse places, from urban cityscapes to serene natural settings, can enhance your production's visual appeal and storytelling. Each location brings its unique character, and adds layers of meaning and context that resonate with viewers.
While some argue that it’s possible to create any environment that you could ever want with computers, blue and green screens, and projected content it’s still not giving actors the ability to feel the real ground under their feet. And while you can surround actors with screens showing a valley with a bubbling river and snow-capped mountains, it doesn’t really place them in the real setting where the space is open, the sun is shining, the clouds are moving and the river is bubbling. This leads us to the next point.
The Power of Immersion
The rough and beautiful desert areas of the Algarve region.
There are plenty of anecdotal stories from actors and actresses that suggest they prefer filming on location instead of in a box surrounded by green or blue screens. Some (we’re not going to mention names) have stated that they’ve actually felt sad and depressed on film sets that are encased by VR settings. Some go so far as to state that they don’t feel this is real filmmaking.
Filming in real-world settings can have a profound impact on actor performances. When actors are immersed in authentic environments, they often find it easier to connect with their characters and deliver more genuine performances. The real-world surroundings can inspire and challenge actors, leading to unexpected moments of brilliance that might not occur within the confines of a studio resulting in more compelling on-screen performances.
To illustrate this concept, imagine yourself hiking a mountain trail. You’re surrounded by a forest, you feel the fresh breeze, your body is working to climb a small hill on the trail and, most importantly, you’re going somewhere. You are propelling yourself along the trail and working toward an accomplishment out in nature. Now imagine doing that on a treadmill surrounded by screens.
To use another example, imagine walking on a busy street walking past corner stores, people talking as they walk by, the smells of the pizza place just ahead of you (if you don’t like pizza you can substitute any food) and the occasional sound of a car horn somewhere in the background. Now imagine doing this on a lot with fake building fronts. It’s just not the same. You FEEL the natural environment.
Embracing Challenges for Creative Growth
While it’s absolutely true that on-location shooting comes with its share of challenges, these obstacles often lead to creative breakthroughs. Unpredictable weather, ambient noise, clouds, rain (god forbid) or something that no one planned for, can disrupt filming schedules and affect the whole production. However, these challenges push filmmakers and crew members to think on their feet, resulting in innovative solutions and unexpected artistic choices.
In his Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy book series, author Douglas Adams’ main character receives the advice to “expect the unexpected.” As filmmakers, we expect the unexpected every day. And that’s part of the beauty of on-location filmmaking. There are happy accidents that occur, there are fun stories of overcoming challenges, and creative solutions to unexpected problems.
The need to adapt to changing conditions on location can spark creative problem solving from directors and cinematographers who might discover unique camera angles or lighting setups they hadn't considered before, leading to visually stunning and original shots. These moments of improvisation often result in some of the most memorable scenes in a production.
The Lisbon waterfront as seen from the entrance the MAAT - The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology.
Balancing Act: Weighing the Pros and Cons
While the benefits of on-location filming are numerous, it's essential to consider the trade-offs. Studio shoots offer more control over the timeline and environment, which can be crucial for certain projects. Filming in a studio can absolutely help a production control costs more precisely. And in a studio, you can (almost) always have it exactly how you want it.
However, the authenticity and creative potential of real-world settings often outweigh these considerations for many productions. And on-location filming can sometimes be more cost-effective. For smaller production companies who don’t have access to large studio technology, filming on-location can be the best choice. Finding locations for your film, all in close proximity to each other, can save time and money. If a production has 10 locations, and you find 10 locations that you need within the same area it has the potential to save money over building 10 locations on a set.
The unique benefits of on-location shooting – from enhanced creativity and authentic performances to the integration of natural environments into your story – make it an compelling option for many filmmakers. In the end, the choice between filming on location or in a studio depends on your project's specific needs and vision.
Find the Perfect Location in Portugal
The sheer number of possibilities in Portugal - from big cities to small towns, from the ocean to the mountains, from the desert-type landscapes of the Algarve to the lush green fields and meadows in the northeast region of the country, and centuries-old buildings to new designs rising to meet the skylines - there’s something for almost any production. Atmosphera Films has the mission of introducing filmmakers to the options in Portugal and can help you find the perfect locations for your production.
